Title: Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets Set to Start for Inter Miami against Atlanta United
Subtitle: Former Barcelona teammates make their mark in MLS
Date: [Date]
Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino has revealed that Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets are likely to make their first starts for the club in their upcoming match against Atlanta United. Both players joined the MLS team this summer and made their debuts as substitutes during the previous match against Cruz Azul.
Having played together 568 times for Barcelona, Messi and Busquets showcased their skills and experience on the pitch. While Messi scored a fantastic free kick in stoppage time to secure victory for Miami in the Leagues Cup match at DRV PNK Stadium, Busquets also made a noticeable impact.
Miami midfielder Robert Taylor praised the influence of the two former Barcelona players on the game against Cruz Azul. Taylor highlighted how their presence created more space and time for teammates, as they attract opponents towards them and possess excellent decision-making abilities.
Martino, who previously managed Atlanta United from 2016 to 2018, expressed his belief that Messi and Busquets’ increased playing time could change the team’s dynamics. However, their starting positions will depend on their level of fitness.
He emphasized the transformation Messi has undergone, as he moves away from relying heavily on elite level players to now wanting to take charge of the game himself. Martino compared it to Messi’s passion for playing in the streets, where he would always crave the ball.
Messi’s move to Inter Miami marks a new chapter in his career. After leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the football star opted for the U.S. over possible returns to Barcelona or joining Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal. The captain’s armband was handed to Messi when he made his debut for the team, showcasing his leadership qualities.
Messi is reunited with former boss Tata Martino, who now serves as the head coach of Inter Miami. He is also joined by his former Barcelona teammates, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, adding a familiar touch to the team’s dynamic.
In celebration of Messi’s arrival in Miami, The Athletic has created a special three-part audio series titled “The Making of Messi.” This series delves into the journey that brought Messi to Florida, exploring his on-field experiences, his relationship with Argentina, and the unique aspects of the deal that secured his move to Miami.
Listeners can enjoy “The Making of Messi” for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. It features a blend of lyrical storytelling, tactical analysis, and local expertise to provide insight into what makes Messi tick both on and off the pitch.
Fans can join us for live coverage of Messi and Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Atlanta United in our match blog on Tuesday night, witnessing the next chapter in Messi’s illustrious career.
[Photo: EVA MARIE UZCATEGUI/AFP via Getty Images]